Nalini Vinayak, a well known Sitar & Tabla player hails from a family of composers and musicians. Blessed by her grandmother Mathaji Andavan Pichai, a saint and composer, she has carved a niche for herself in the field of music, as a Performer, Composer, Ensemble Director &Teacher. Nalini received her training in Carnatic music from her mother Vidushi Kamakshi Kuppuswamy and Hindustani Classical Music on the Sitar under the tutelage of Pandit Janardan Mitta (disciple of Pt. Ravi Shankar) of Maihar Gharana. Her love for rhythm drew her towards the Tabla and she received training under Sri. Srinivasa Rao of Delhi Gharana. Nalini’s knowledge of the two styles and command over melody and rhythm have rendered her style and compositions unique. A passionate teacher, Nalini served as the Director of the Indian Classical Music Ensemble at the College of Music, Florida State University. Nalini’s discography: Samarpana, a Carnatic offering on sitar; Nada Sangama: Jugalbandhi with Veena; Omkar–The Life Cycle of Man, Instrumental Fusion released by Saregama (HMV/RPG); Stringing Echoes: classical Indian music album with Dr.Haiqiong Deng on Zheng released by Tribal Records, was nominated for the Independent Music Awards 2013. Soothing Embers: Fusion album released by Tribal Records; You & I, Sacred Mantras; several singles in 2024. Ragamalika Based on Raag Kirwani, winner of Silver Medal from Global Music Awards 2023. Nalini's website: www.nalinivinayak.com